A day in the life told by a Sussex Spaniel
I wake slowly, stretching with a yawn that makes my serious face look even funnier. A ball appears at my feet. I pick it up, trot a few steps, then drop it with a wag. My human laughs. In the garden, I potter through the long grass, sniffing every clover. At lunch, I rest my head on a warm lap. Later, we walk in the meadow, slow and thorough, just as I like. Home again, I curl on the sofa, my silky ears fanned out, dreaming of biscuits and belly rubs.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Sussex Spaniel tipTreats should be limited to no more than 10% of daily calories, and low-fat options like carrots or snap peas are a good choice to help keep your Sussex Spaniel at a healthy weight. Because this breed can be prone to bloat, it's wise to avoid giving large, rich treats and to feed smaller, more frequent meals instead.
Source: vcahospitals.com purina.co.uk petmd.com vet.cornell.edu
Simple Carrot Crunchies
Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.
You need
- 1 large carrot, washed and peeled
How
- Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
- Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
- Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.
How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.
Recipe from The Kennel Club
Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup
Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.
You need
- 1 cooking pumpkin
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
- Cinnamon, to sprinkle
How
- Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
- Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
- Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
- Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
- Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.
How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.
Recipe from Dogs Trust
Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)
A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.
You need
- 1 egg
- 170g boiled chicken breast
- 100g cooked plain rice
- 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
- 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)
How
- Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
- Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before serving.
How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.
Recipe from Blue Cross
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Sussex Spaniel, and at what times?
Feed an adult Sussex Spaniel at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times, such as morning and evening, help their digestion. For exact amounts, follow the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Sussex Spaniel eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Provide high-quality dog food suitable for its life stage. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially risky for dogs. Always check with your vet for a tailored diet plan.7
How often should I bathe a Sussex Spaniel?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, but a general guideline is at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues, using a gentle dog shampoo.8 Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Sussex Spaniel need brushing?
Brush at least once a week to keep its silky coat and ears tidy. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every two days to prevent tangles, especially on the feathering and long ears.13 Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Sussex Spaniel's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the pink quick, and ask your vet or a groomer if you're unsure.8 Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Sussex Spaniel need?
This active breed needs more than two hours of exercise daily, including walks and play. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily walks and play, and they especially enjoy countryside rambles that let them use their hunting instincts.3 Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Sussex Spaniel's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth at least twice a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly to keep them clean and dry since floppy ears trap moisture. Your vet can demonstrate proper care if needed.8 Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Sussex Spaniel live?
Sussex Spaniels typically live around 10 years or more with good care. Regular vet visits and a healthy lifestyle can help them enjoy a long, happy life.3
Is a Sussex Spaniel good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is known to be very good with children, being kind, gentle, and devoted. They generally get along well with other pets, especially when raised together and socialised early.421
Can a Sussex Spaniel be left alone?
Sussex Spaniels are people-focused and love company, so they don't enjoy being left alone for long. For short periods they may manage with plenty of exercise and toys, but consider a dog walker if you're away often.42
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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